Easy Chicken Fajita Rice Casserole

Love fajitas but want a hands-off, easy dinner?

This Chicken Fajita Rice Casserole has all the bold flavors of sizzling fajitas combined into a hearty, cheesy, baked dish.

Juicy chicken, sautéed bell peppers, and seasoned rice come together in a single casserole dish, perfect for busy weeknights!

Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a crowd, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fajita Rice Casserole

• Bold Tex-Mex flavors with tender chicken and vibrant bell peppers
• Easy to customize with different toppings and protein options
• Perfect for meal prep or a make-ahead dinner

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
• Rice – Long-grain white or brown rice
• Bell peppers – A mix of red, green, and yellow for vibrant color
• Onion – Adds a classic fajita flavor
• Fajita seasoning – Store-bought or homemade for extra spice
• Chicken broth – Helps cook the rice perfectly
• Cheese – Cheddar or Mexican blend for a melty topping
• Optional add-ins – Black beans, corn, diced tomatoes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Veggies

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
• Cook sliced onions and bell peppers until softened and fragrant.
• Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken

• Season chicken with fajita seasoning.
• Sear in the same skillet for a few minutes on each side until browned.
• Cut into bite-sized pieces.

3. Combine Everything in a Casserole Dish

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the uncooked rice evenly.
• Add chicken broth, seasoned chicken, and sautéed veggies.
• Stir to combine.

4. Bake to Perfection

• Cover with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.

5. Add Cheese and Finish Baking

• Remove foil and sprinkle cheese over the top.
• Bake uncovered for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips for the Best Chicken Fajita Rice Casserole

• Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
• Swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.
• Adjust the spice level by adding extra chili powder or jalapeños.
• Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.

What to Serve with Chicken Fajita Rice Casserole

• Toppings: Sour cream, avocado, fresh cilantro, lime wedges
• Side dishes: Black bean salad, tortilla chips with salsa, or a simple green salad

You can find our side dish recipes here.

How to Store & Reheat

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until heated through.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! However, brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to increase the baking time and add extra broth.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes of cooking time.

What’s the best cheese to use?

A Mexican cheese blend, cheddar, or pepper jack works best for a gooey, melty topping.